Sampler

Date1840

Artist Susan Bonnell (American, 1821 - 1899)

CultureAmerican

MediumSilk threads on linen ground

DimensionsSight (mostly square): 16 1/8 x 17 3/4 in. (41 x 45.1 cm)
Framed (vintage frame with glass): 17 1/2 x 19 x 1/2 in. (44.4 x 48.3 x 1.3 cm)

Credit LineTransfer from Vassar College Libraries, Special Collections, Martha Clawson Reed Collection

On View

Not on view

Period19th c

Classification(s)

SignedAt bottom: Susan Bonnell

Inscribed Jesus permit thy gracious name to stand / As the first effort of a youthful hand/ And as her fingers on the canvas move/ Engage her tender thoughts to seek thy love/ Susan Bonnell Aged 7 yrs February 1840

BibliographyOhio is My Dwelling Place - Sue StudebakerDescriptionThe style of this sampler - pine trees flanking a farmhouse, the bell or lily shaped flowers of the border and the detail and density of the stitching of the church and churchyard buildings in the lower register are indications that this sampler originated in Ohio. The upper register consists of 4 alphabets and two number sequences and 4 decorative dividing lines. In the middle register is a 3 story , 3 bay center hall farm house shown in perspective with a picket fence and flanked by matching pine trees and foliage in oversized urns. Other features are birds and a small man reclining by one of the trees, Below the scene is a verse and inscription, flanked by floral motifs and a small man in a boat. At the bottom is a village scene with a church, picket fence, a house shown in perspective, flowering trees, a small figure, a bird, basket, and a single large motif of densely stitched bird on a branch. The border is alternating red and white strawberries and lilies in a green arcaded vine. Colors are red, white, green, blue, rust and black.

Terms

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email loebcollections@vassar.edu